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Exporting from Rayforge

Rayforge supports several export options for different purposes:

  • G-code - Machine control output for running jobs
  • Object Export - Export individual workpieces to vector formats
  • Document Export - Export all workpieces as a single file

Exporting Objects​

You can export any workpiece to vector formats for use in design software, CAD applications, or for archiving.

How to Export​

  1. Select a workpiece on the canvas
  2. Choose Object → Export Object... (or right-click → Export Object...)
  3. Select format and save location

Available Formats​

FormatExtensionDescription
RFS.rfsRayforge's native parametric sketch format. Preserves all constraints and can be re-imported for editing.
SVG.svgScalable Vector Graphics. Widely compatible with design software like Inkscape, Illustrator, and web browsers.
DXF.dxfDrawing Exchange Format. Compatible with most CAD applications like AutoCAD, FreeCAD, and LibreCAD.

Export Notes​

  • SVG and DXF export the resolved geometry (not parametric constraints)
  • Exports use millimeter units
  • Geometry is scaled to actual dimensions (world space)
  • Multiple subpaths (disconnected shapes) are preserved as separate elements

Use Cases​

Sharing designs:

  • Export to SVG for sharing with Inkscape users
  • Export to DXF for CAD software users

Further editing:

  • Export to SVG/DXF, edit in external software, re-import

Archiving:

  • Use RFS for sketch-based designs to preserve editability
  • Use SVG/DXF for long-term storage or non-Rayforge users

Exporting Documents​

You can export all workpieces in a document to a single vector file. This is useful for sharing complete projects or creating backups in standard formats.

How to Export​

  1. Choose File → Export Document...
  2. Select format (SVG or DXF)
  3. Choose save location

Available Formats​

FormatExtensionDescription
SVG.svgScalable Vector Graphics. Widely compatible with design software like Inkscape, Illustrator, and web browsers.
DXF.dxfDrawing Exchange Format. Compatible with most CAD applications like AutoCAD, FreeCAD, and LibreCAD.

Export Notes​

  • All workpieces from all layers are combined into a single file
  • Workpiece positions are preserved
  • Empty workpieces are skipped
  • The bounding box encompasses all geometry

Use Cases​

  • Project sharing: Export entire project for collaboration
  • Backup: Create a visual archive of your work
  • Further editing: Take the whole design into Inkscape or CAD software

Exporting G-code​

Generated G-code contains everything exactly as it would be sent to the machine. The exact format, commands, numeric precision, etc. depends on the settings of the currently selected machine and its G-code dialect.

Export Methods​

Method 1: File Menu​

File Export G-code (Ctrl+E)

  • Opens file save dialog
  • Choose location and filename
  • G-code generated and saved

Method 2: Command Line​

# Export from command line (if supported)
rayforge --export output.gcode input.svg

G-code Output​

Generated G-code contains everything exactly as it would be sent to the machine. The exact format, commands, numeric precision, etc. depends on the settings of the currently selected machine and its G-code dialect.